In a bid to bolster the independent podcasting community, a new year-long programme, The Amplify Accelerator, has been launched today. This initiative, spearheaded by the Partnership Group’s new production arm, Unlocked, aims to equip independent podcasters with the essential tools, resources, and support necessary to achieve substantial growth and sustainability in a competitive industry.
The Need for Support in Podcasting
Podcasting has experienced explosive growth over recent years, with an ever-expanding number of shows and listeners. Despite this growth, many independent podcasters struggle to stand out due to limited resources and support. The Amplify Accelerator is designed to address this challenge by offering targeted assistance to grassroots podcasters who form the backbone of the industry but often lack the means to reach a broader audience.
What is The Amplify Accelerator
Objective and Mission
The Amplify Accelerator aims to provide comprehensive support to up to four selected independent podcasters each year. By doing so, it seeks to nurture diverse voices, build sustainable careers, and foster a more equitable podcasting industry. The programme offers a robust support system, including access to valuable resources and professional guidance.
Key Benefits for Selected Podcasters
- Free Studio Space: Participants will have access to a central London studio, providing a professional environment for recording and producing high-quality content.
- Podcast Editing Services: Access to a skilled podcast editor will ensure that each episode meets professional standards.
- Editorial Support: Leanne Alie, Head of Podcasts at Unlocked, will offer editorial guidance to enhance the content and presentation of the podcast.
- Marketing and Press Support: Active marketing and press support will help elevate the podcast’s visibility and reach.
- Cross-Promotion Opportunities: The podcast will be cross-promoted across Unlocked’s network of original podcasts, increasing exposure.
- Guest Opportunities: Participants can tap into TPG’s roster of talent for potential podcast guests, adding value to their episodes.
- Access to Additional Resources: Podcasters will benefit from TPG’s literary department, live events team, and publishing resources.
- Enhanced Ad Revenue: A more desirable ad revenue rate will be offered, improving monetization opportunities.
- Retention of IP Rights: Creators will retain the intellectual property and rights to their podcasts.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for The Amplify Accelerator, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Listenership: The podcast must achieve a minimum of 2,000 to 5,000+ listens per episode, per week.
- Frequency: The podcast should be released weekly, although seasonal shows are also considered.
- Independence: The podcast must be independently owned with no other partners involved, excluding monetization platforms.
- Online Presence: Both the podcast and its host should have an established online social presence.
- Episode Count: A minimum of 20 episodes should have been published.
- Studio Location: While applicants are not required to be London-based, the provided studio access is located in central London.
Leadership and Vision
Leanne Alie, Head of Podcasts at Unlocked, brings a wealth of experience to the programme. With a background in production, development, and commissioning, Alie has previously worked with the BBC on podcast production and development. She is excited to give back to the podcasting community and help create more opportunities for independent creators.
Alie states, “The podcast industry’s growth has been remarkable, but smaller independent shows face increasing challenges in gaining visibility. By offering support and resources, we aim to empower home-grown podcasters and promote diverse stories that contribute to greater empathy and understanding within society.”
Application Process
To apply for The Amplify Accelerator, interested podcasters should visit Unlocked Podcasts for detailed information on criteria and application procedures. Applicants are required to submit a 10-minute highlights reel of their podcast, along with links to social media profiles and listener data. The deadline for applications is Monday, October 7. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews, with up to four podcasters selected for the inaugural round of the programme.
Conclusion
The Amplify Accelerator represents a significant opportunity for independent podcasters to gain the support and resources needed to thrive in a competitive landscape. By providing access to studio space, professional guidance, and marketing support, Unlocked is paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable podcasting industry. Podcasters interested in participating should prepare their applications and take advantage of this unique programme to elevate their shows and achieve their growth goals.
